Hired for a Summer Co-Op-Back of the House

First things first, I'm in a hospitality/food management program at my college. I'm a freshman going on summer co-op. I have no restaurant experience. However, cooking, especially in a restaurant setting, has always been of interest to me. super stoked to have landed this job for the summer, but i do have a few questions.

I've been hired to learn the back of the house for my co-op, and am starting at dishwashing and working my way through prep, to the line (most likely) over the course of the summer. I've worked a large banquet before doing everything but dishwashing. So prep, cooking etc...

What do I need to know/really focus on when it comes to this co op? Granted, I know there will be long hours, and weekends will be non existent. I'm planning on working there or at another restaurant part time once school starts back up again. I've got a basic knife set (chef/filet/bread/paring.searing tongs/Steel). Is there anything else that could be quite useful to add? Are military style boots fine for the kitchen?

I can't answer everything else, but I'd say you might want to look into a pair of shoes for kitchen work specifically (I personally love Shoes for Crews, no relation, just a happy user) because any shoes I ever thought wouldn't have been half bad in the kitchen have proven -way- too slippery, and that's just dangerous. Hope that helps, and good luck!

Shoes for Crews would be a good choice. Non slip is definitely needed. Your shoes should also be comfortable enough to wear for 12 hours, standing on your feet. Military boots are heavy and will tire you out quickly.

Wash your hands upon entering the kitchen. Work hard at whatever job you are given. Don't complain about anything. When you have shown you can handle the job you have been given, you will be asked to do more. You will most likely be wet, greasy, smell funny and have sore muscles, often soon after you arrive at work. Don't complain. If prepping, you may cut yourself. Don't complain. Work in a neat and organized fashion all the time. Wash your hands all the time. Work quickly and efficiently. Do not talk about yourself unless asked a direct question. Keep your answers simple and short. Pay close attention to what is going on around you while you are doing your work. so you can react quickly if you are asked to do something. Keep your eyes and ears open to learn anything you can from anyone you can about anything you can. Show up on time, every day. Stay later than scheduled if asked. Do not engage in gossip, sexist jokes or horseplay. If you don't understand something, ask. Everyone you work with deserves your daily respect.

Regarding shoes, I have to recommend Wolverines. The steel toe boots offer great protection. The soles with the blue bottoms are incredible. I tend to get a fatigued back after working a long shift but these shoes have eliminated that problem. I believe I have the 8" high boots, but can't remember. Just look for the blue soles if you chose to get Wolverines. Awesome work books.